Wayne Rooney set for shock return to Man Utd line-up in Galatasary game

Wayne Rooney is in line to return for Manchester United in their Champions League tie with Galatasaray less than a month after gashing his thigh.

Wayne Rooney could be back earlier than expected for Manchester United (Picture: AP)

Rooney faced a lengthy lay-off after receiving the nasty gash to his upper leg following a clash with Fulham’s Hugo Rodallega on 25 August, but has impressed United’s medical staff with his rapid recovery.The 26-year-old returned to light training five days ago, and with competition for places up front high following the arrival of Robin van Persie from Arsenal, Rooney is desperate to return to the side and prove himself as soon as possible.Indeed, Rooney has asked manager Sir Alex Ferguson to consider including him on the bench for tonight’s Champions League opener against the Turkish champions even though he is yet to have the strapping on the injury removed because of fears over infection.The England international took full part in yesterday’s training at Carrington – his first contact action since the 3-2 win over Fulham.A final decision will be made later today, with Rooney set to undergo a fitness test before Ferguson makes a decision on whether to risk the striker.Either way, Rooney is expected to be fully fit in time for Sunday’s meeting with Liverpool at Anfield.